Mideast Conflict Escalates: US, Israel Strike Iran; PH Govt Alerts OFWs, Flights to Dubai Affected
The Middle East plunged into wider conflict after the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran, prompting global warnings against further escalation. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Gulf Arab states, leading to at least 85 deaths in an Iranian school. Locally, Philippine carriers like Cebu Pacific and PAL cancelled or diverted Dubai flights. President Marcos Jr. ordered DMW and DFA to ensure the safety of Filipinos in the region, while OWWA and the PH Embassy in Tel Aviv advised OFWs to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols.
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran, plunging the Middle East into a major conflict. The operation, codenamed "Roaring Lion" by Israel, targeted Iranian military, nuclear, ballistic missile, and leadership sites across the country. US President Donald Trump described the operation as "Operation Epic Fury" and called it a "massive and ongoing operation" aimed at preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. The strikes followed weeks of US military buildup in the region and came after failed nuclear talks between the US and Iran.
Iran responded with missile attacks targeting US bases in Gulf Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates region, and launched counterstrikes against Israel and Qatar. These retaliatory attacks caused significant disruption in Gulf cities, with residents fleeing affected areas. The conflict has resulted in at least 85 deaths in an Iranian school, though specific casualty figures from the broader conflict remain unclear. Iran's Supreme Leader vowed a "crushing response" to the attacks.
In the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. immediately ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to implement contingency measures to ensure the safety of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and other Filipinos in the affected region. The Philippine embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv were placed on full alert, advising nationals to stay indoors and follow local safety advisories. DFA Secretary Tess Lazaro urged all parties to pursue dialogue and de-escalation while focusing on citizen protection.
Filipino workers in Kuwait reported hearing explosions and remain on high alert due to fears of broader escalation. Philippine carriers including Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines cancelled or diverted flights to Dubai as the conflict disrupted air travel in the region. The DMW has raised a heightened alert status and is prepared for immediate repatriation of OFWs if necessary, though no specific flight cancellations to Dubai were detailed in recent reports. The Philippine government continues to monitor the situation closely while prioritizing the safety of its citizens in the conflict zone.
Join the discussion
What do you think? Drop your thoughts below.